Release of Afghans from Gitmo condemned

WASHINGTON (Pajhwok): The release of four Afghan detainees from the Guantanamo detention centre would only embolden terrorists, a top US senator said on Monday.

“The four detainees the White House released last week have reported ties to the Taliban or Al Qaeda, yet are now being sent back to Afghanistan where we have men and women serving in harm’s way,” Jim Inhofe said.

A ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, he e added the step would embolden terrorists in the region and around the world to continue the fight against America and its allies.

“With 104 confirmed cases of recidivism and 74 suspected cases, it is in our nation’s best interest not to increase risk by releasing more terrorists when our nation is involved in two wars,” he said.

The lawmaker urged President Barack Obama, as commander-in-chief, to stay focused on the most important priority -- the security of the nation.

“The president’s intent to solidify his legacy on closing Guantanamo Bay is putting politics ahead of the security of our service members, the American people and our nation,” Inhofe said.